I am using the daily Bible reading schedule from “The Bible.net” for my daily Bible reading.

Today, I am reading and commenting on Isaiah 1-4.

I never before noticed that three of the four kings during whose reigns Isaiah prophesied were good kings.  Which tells us that while having leaders who serve God is important, it is not enough.  If we the people do not faithfully serve God, He will give stop giving us leaders who do.  That is what happened to the people of Judah.  Despite having kings who faithfully served God and the warnings of prophets such as Isaiah, they chose to worship idols and pursue sinful pleasures.  

Isaiah condemned the people of Judah for putting on a show of righteousness without actually doing the work of righteousness.  They took part in religious ceremonies.  They offered sacrifices.  They even fasted and prayed.  They talked the talk and performed all of the public rituals of worshiping God.  But they did not do good by defending the cause of orphans or fighting for the rights of widows.  They did not seek justice.  Our sins stain us completely.  We cannot do anything to remove that stain.  However, God will completely wash it away if we allow Him to transform us.  If we stop trying to look righteous and instead allow God to direct our actions, He will cleanse us.

The day is coming when only God will be exalted.  Everyone and everything which holds itself up as worthy of honor will be cut down.  Human pride will be humiliated.  Institutions and governments will be brought low.  Only those who bow before the Lord and allow Him to teach them His ways will be spared.  This passage contains such powerful warnings, and promises, that I want to write more, but I will stop here and let you read it for yourself.